Inspiring Innovation in Rural Communities
Innovation Hub faced the unique challenge of creating a startup ecosystem in rural Klamath and Lake Counties, where talented individuals often felt compelled to leave for larger cities to pursue entrepreneurial dreams. This new program needed a digital presence that could inspire confidence, provide resources, and demonstrate that innovation could thrive in a rural setting.
Rural Brain Drain
Talented individuals were leaving the area seeking opportunities in larger cities, taking their innovative ideas and potential economic impact with them.
Connectivity Constraints
Many potential users had limited internet speeds, requiring a website that would load quickly and perform well even on slower connections.
Building Community Confidence
The website needed to inspire confidence that a rural town could support innovation and entrepreneurship, countering preconceptions about limited opportunities.
Resource Accessibility
Entrepreneurs needed easy access to startup resources, mentorship, and training typically only available in urban areas.
Multi-Stakeholder Coordination
With partners including OIT and OnTheVerge consulting, the platform needed to serve multiple audiences while maintaining a cohesive vision.
Innovation Hub needed more than just a website – they needed a digital platform that could change perceptions about rural innovation and provide tangible resources to keep talent local.
